Hey Winnipeggers!

Fall’s creeping in, and yesterday’s chilly weather was a clear reminder! If you haven’t started yet, now’s the perfect time to swap out those summer outfits for something cozier.

Over the last couple of days, I’ve been busy finalizing the branding for our community—think colors, logo, fonts, and all that good stuff. I even took a stroll downtown yesterday and treated myself to some ice cream from Fête. Perfect way to mix work with a little treat!

But, in today's edition of the Winnipeg Digest:

• Free Provincial Park Entry This Labour Day Weekend

• Last Free Food Festival of the Summer!

• Home of the Week

• Manitoba Teachers Secure Historic New Agreement

• 24+ Events & more.

— Jas Singh

News

Free Provincial Park Entry This Labour Day Weekend

This Labour Day weekend, from August 30 to September 2, you can explore Manitoba’s provincial parks without paying any entry fees.

The government’s offering this as a way for everyone to enjoy the outdoors as summer winds down. With over 90 parks to choose from, it's a perfect time to hike, camp, or just relax in nature.

For all of us, it’s more than just a free pass—it’s an opportunity to spend time with loved ones, and appreciate the beauty of our province before it gets chilly. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, this weekend is a great chance to make the most of what Manitoba has to offer.

Just remember, while park entry is free, camping fees still apply, so plan accordingly and enjoy your time outdoors!

Message from Flavour Fusion Fest

Looking to sponsor our next email? Reply to this email or reach out at [email protected]!

Last Free Food Festival of the Summer!

Looking to experience the diverse food scene in Winnipeg without breaking the bank?

Flavour Fusion Fest is your answer, and yes—it’s free.

At Riverview Community Center, you’ll find a market packed with flavors from up to 10 different countries. One minute, you’re savoring spicy jerk chicken; the next, you’re enjoying bubble tea. It’s a taste adventure from start to finish.

With a DJ, good vibes, and a community that loves food as much as you do—this isn’t just a festival, it’s a celebration. So, grab your friends, bring the family, and join us for a day full of flavor and fun.

Mark your calendar this weekend: Saturday, August 31, from 12 PM to 7 PM at Riverview Community Center. See you there!

Home of the Week:

Note: In past editions, we’ve often featured homes on the pricier side, but we’ve heard your feedback and are testing out showcasing more affordable options that more folks can consider. If you’re interested in seeing more homes in this range versus the higher-end ones, please be sure to leave your thoughts in the poll below.

28 Iris Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba

• 3 Beds, 3 Baths, 1340 sqft

• Location: Garden City

• Built-in: 1962

• Price: $397,900

• Description:

  This updated home features 3 bathrooms, including a 3-piece ensuite, a bright kitchen, and a finished basement with a games area. The west-facing backyard offers a deck and fenced area for relaxing.

What's Happening in Winnipeg?

Local Community

New Childcare Centre Supports Métis Families

Winnipeg just got a new childcare facility, and it’s a big deal, especially for the Red River Métis community. The Louis Riel Child Care Centre, which just opened its doors, offers 40 spaces for infants and preschoolers, with a strong focus on Métis culture, language, and heritage.

Along with daily education, the centre provides hot lunches and cool field trips. But it’s not just about the kids—this new centre also creates jobs, giving parents the chance to get back to work, knowing their kids are in good hands. It’s a win-win for the community, ensuring that the next generation grows up with pride in their roots while supporting economic growth in the area.

Big Turnout at Filipino Street Festival

Remember the Filipino Street Festival we talked about in our Friday edition? Well, despite the heat, it saw a huge turnout at Petrus Hall. The event celebrated Filipino culture with a parade, food trucks, and a ball hockey tournament, all while marking Winnipeg’s 150th birthday. With 10,000 attendees, it was a true celebration of community and the cultures that make Winnipeg unique.

Indigenous Models to Walk Paris Runway

As reported by CTV News, two Indigenous models from Manitoba, Madison Moore and Aaliyah Tait, are heading to Paris Fashion Week. They’ll be showcasing designs by Alyssia Sutherland of Peguis First Nation, representing their culture on a global stage. This moment is huge for Indigenous representation in fashion.

Government News:

Manitoba Government Increases Support for Crime Victims

The Manitoba government just boosted funding for crime victims, adding $250,000 to bring the total to $750,000. Here’s how the money’s being used:

• Heartwood Healing Centre: Therapy for those who’ve experienced childhood sexual abuse.

• Sage House: Safe space and resources for women in survival sex work.

• Survivor’s Hope Crisis Centre: Support for victims of sexual and intimate partner violence.

• Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation: Bereavement support for families of homicide victims.

• Candace House: A comforting refuge for families impacted by violent crime.

This increase ensures that more people get the care and support they need.

Manitoba Teachers Secure Historic New Agreement

As reported by CTV News, Manitoba’s teachers have secured a landmark collective agreement, the first to cover all 37 anglophone school divisions in the province. The deal includes a 12.25% wage increase over the next few years, along with retroactive pay.

Beyond the pay boost, the agreement also brings more prep time and improved leave options, making teaching a more stable and attractive profession, especially in rural areas. This is a significant win for the education community, providing a strong foundation as they gear up for the new school year.

Coming up this week:

This section includes only the major events happening soon. For a complete list of all events, you'll have to wait for future editions!

• Downtown Movie Night | 6:30PM, Aug 30 (Free)

  • Location: Bonnycastle Park (260 Assiniboine Avenue)

  • Description:

    • 6-7PM: Giant games, inflatables, face painting, photobooth, arts & crafts workshops, cotton candy, food vendors and MORE!

      7-8PM: Family dance party, featuring music by live DJs.

      8:30 p.m. – 10:30pm: Featured movie – Wonka.

• Afro Fall Festival | 11AM - 11PM, Aug 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: St. Norbert Arts Centre, 100 Rue des Ruines du Monastere

  • Description: Celebrate the vibrant and colorful Afro culture with music, dance, food, and more at our Afro Fall festival!

• The Fall Fair | Aug 30 - Sept 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Red River Exhibition Park (3977 Portage Ave)

  • Description: Featuring more than 20 thrilling midway rides, a variety of children’s entertainers and mouth-watering food!

• Tyndal Community Market | 12-9PM, Aug 31 - Sept 1 (Free)

  • Location: Tyndall Park Community Centre (2255 King Edward St)

  • Description: Community event with food trucks, local vendors & activities!

• The Beer Can Brawl | 1PM, Sept 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Beer Can (1 Granite Way, Winnipeg)

  • Description: This live amateur boxing competition will bring the energy! Nothing beats watching the action in person, so set your screens aside and get in on this ride!

Exciting Events: Aug 28 - 29

This section only includes events starting on Aug 28-29.

Sports🏀

• Yoga at Assiniboine Park | 6PM, Aug 28 (Free)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park, Lyric Theatre

  • Warmup: Mindfulness meditation session with Emily Melvin

• Wednesday Evening Bike Rides | 7PM, Aug 28 (Free)

  • Location: Bourkevale CC (100 Ferry Rd)

  • Description: Explore the neighborhood, chat with fellow riders and admire local art!

• Winnipeg Goldeyes vs. Gary SouthShore RailCats | Aug 28 (Tickets)

  • Location: Blue Cross Park, Winnipeg, MB

• Victory Lane Speedway Race 12 | 7PM, Aug 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Victory Lane Speedway, St Adolphe, MB

Music 🎵

• Dave Hill w/ Kevin McDonald | 8PM, Aug 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Park Theatre (698 Osborne Street)

  • About: Dave Hill is an American comedian, radio host, writer, musician, known for Unbreakable Kimmie Schmidt (2017), Full Frontal with Samantha Bee (2016), King of Miami (2007), and Inside Amy Schumer (2013).

• Cohen Sieg | 6PM, Aug 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: St. Norbert Arts Centre (100 rue des Ruines du Monastere, Winnipeg)

• M'Organ Threemen | Aug 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Park Alleys (730 Osborne St)

• Joey Landreth | 7-9PM, Aug 29 (Free)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre, Assiniboine Park

Family Fun🎆

• Mary Poppins Musical | Aug 28 - Sept 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rainbow Stage (Kildonan Park)

  • Description: Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures.

• Live Horse Racing | 7:30PM, Aug 28 (Free)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs (3975 Portage Ave)

  • Description: Horse racing, 140 VLTs and fabulous dining - it’s fun you can bet on!

• South Osborne Farmer's Market | 4PM, Aug 28 (More Info)

  • Location: Lord Roberts Community Centre

• Movie Nights at the Square | 7:30PM, Aug 29 (Free)

  • Location: Transcona Centennial Square, 135 Regent Ave W

  • Movie: Back to the Future!

• Bison Safari | 10:30AM & 6:15PM, Aug 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive (1961 McCreary Rd)

  • Description: See North America’s largest land mammal from just metres away, interacting in their natural habitat.

• Paddle Night | 6PM - 8:30PM, Aug 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive (1961 McCreary Rd)

  • Description: Spend an evening canoeing or kayaking for the perfect summer night – no experience required!

• Downtown Winnipeg Farmer’s Market | 10AM, Aug 29 (More Info)

  • Location: 360 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB

• St. James Village Biz Community BBQ | 5:30PM, Aug 29 (Free)

  • Location: 1819 Portage Ave

  • Description: Enjoy a free BBQ hosted by St. James Village Biz. The first 140 people get a free deluxe hamburger and swag bag!

Special Events 🎨

• Garden Party at Assiniboine Park | 6:30PM, August 28 (More Info)

  • Location: Leo Mol Sculpture Garden

  • Description: Gather to raise funds for the ongoing care of Assiniboine Park, Assiniboine Park Zoo, and The Leaf.

• Ian Fidance Comedy | Multiple times, Aug 29-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumors Comedy Club (190-2025 Corydon Avenue)

  • Note: The first two shows are sold out!

• Jeudis Franco Thursdays | 5:30PM - 8:30PM, Aug 29 (Free)

  • Website: LINK

  • Description: A total of 32 vendors will participate in the St. Boniface Summer Market and will exhibit high-quality, artisanal products (food, beauty products, plants and flowers, household items, etc.)

CHEERS!

Thanks for reading The Winnipeg Digest! I’ll see you again on Friday!